Eco-friendly Kurà Design Villas to Open in Costa Rica

SAN JOSÉ, COSTA RICA—Kurà Design Villas, opening in November, will offer a new level of eco-friendly, boutique hotel design to the southern Pacific Coast of Costa Rica, thanks to the creative passions of its owners and their combined expertise in architecture and biology.

Starting with a commitment to protect the local environment, Alejandra Umana (the biologist) and Martin Wells (the architect) are both Costa Ricans who want to share their love of the country’s biodiversity and beauty with a hospitality experience that enhances yet does not compete with the surrounding wilderness. Set on a mountain ridge overlooking the Pacific Ocean and near the town of Uvita, Kurà was created around a minimalist design which allows the lush mountain top rainforest to blend in with the accommodations.

The property features six hillside villas for up to 12 guests, including two suites; two infinity villas featuring high ceilings and expansive terraces, tucked beneath the salt-water infinity pool; and two junior suites boasting unique tree-canopy views. A full service spa also offers private yoga lessons upon request.

Eco & Elegant at the Same Time

“We wanted to prove that being ‘eco’ does not mean we can’t offer beautiful design and elegant hospitality, even if we are deep in the heart of the rainforest on top of a mountain,” says Wells. “Each villa has been designed to encourage our guests to interact with nature in a very authentic way. We hope they want to spend as much time indoors watching the nature that surrounds them, as much as they want to be outside exploring.”

Each villa features an open-plan concept that showcases luxurious amenities such as a king-sized bed with quality linens, plush towels and bathrobes, a double rainfall-style shower, a private minibar and wine cellar, an espresso coffeemaker, an iPod docking station, and free wireless internet. Shared guest amenities include a 62-foot saltwater infinity pool; an outdoor lounge, bar and spa area; and private jungle hiking trails. Guests will enjoy daily meals at the on-site restaurant serving Costa Rican fusion cuisine using local organic produce and tropical ingredients.

Cayuga Sustainable Hospitality will manage the property that will include solar panels to provide electricity and heat water, a rainwater collection system, LED lighting throughout, and the use of biodegradable cleaning products. When designing the menus, as many local ingredients as possible were used and local guides and tour operators are employed to provide services to guests.